Al-Sadr Walks Away Free After Nafaf Peace Deal

DEBKAfile Intelligence

27 August 2004

Rebel Sadr’s militiamen begin handing in weapons as tens of thousands continue to stream into Najef’s Ali Imam shrine for Friday prayers.

Under 5-point plan negotiated by Ayatollah Sistani with radical rebel Sadr overnight, rebel stronghold towns of Najef and Kufa declared weapons-free, foreign troops leave, handing security to Iraqi police, compensation paid for damage of three-week conflict.

DEBKAfile adds: US forces who fought rebellion withdrew to edge of city. Not all militiamen hand in weapons. Sadr walks free under Allawi government amnesty.